Types of memory
⇒Computer’s memory can be classified into two type:-
Primary
memory and secondary memory
A. Primary Memory can be further
classified as RAM and ROM.
RAM or Random Access Memory is
the unit in a computer system. It is the place in a computer where the
operating system, application programs and the data in current use are kept
temporarily so that they can be accessed by the computer’s processor. It is said
to be ‘volatile’ since its contents are accessible only as long as the computer
is on. The contents of RAM are no more available once the computer is turned
off.
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| RAM(Random Access Memory) |
ROM or Read Only Memory is
a special type of memory which can only be read and contents of which are not
lost even when the computer is switched off. It typically contains
manufacturer’s instructions. Among other things, ROM also stores an initial
program called the ‘bootstrap loader’ whose function is to start the operation
of computer system once the power is turned on.
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| ROM(Read Only Memory) |
B. Secondary Memory RAM is volatile memory having a limited storage
capacity. Secondary/auxiliary memory is storage other than the RAM. These
include devices that are peripheral and are connected and controlled by the
computer to enable permanent storage of programs and data. Secondary storage
devices are of two types; magnetic and optical. Magnetic devices include hard
disks and optical storage devices are CDs, DVDs, Pen drive, Zip drive etc.
· Hard Disk are made up of rigid material and are
usually a stack of metal disks sealed in a box. The hard disk and the hard disk
drive exist together as a unit and is a permanent part of the computer where
data and programs are saved. These disks have storage capacities ranging from
1GB to 80 GB and more. Hard disks are rewritable.
· Compact Disk Compact Disk (CD) is portable disk
having data storage capacity between 650-700 MB. It can hold large amount of
information such as music, full-motion videos, and text etc. CDs can be either
read only or read write type.
· Digital Video Disk Digital
Video Disk (DVD) is similar to a CD but has larger storage capacity and
enormous clarity. Depending upon the disk type it can store several Gigabytes
of data. DVDs are primarily used to store music or movies and can be played
back on your television or the computer too. These are not rewritable.
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